Alpine Ski Racer Following Her Dreams

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While driving with my dad, we came upon the topic of being obsessed. He mentioned to me that it was similar to my focus towards skiing, inspiring this post…

I have put a lot of energy and time into what I do, and will continue to do so. I want to work as hard as I can, and make it as far as I can in ski racing. I am beginning to realize the commitment that it takes, hours in the gym, on the bike, resting effectively and not always having time for other things. To really excel at what you do it takes a lot of time, energy, dedication, and focus. Some might say obsession. It does not come easy to be the best you can be.

To reach your potential in any sport at some point will require 100 percent commitment to what you are doing. It does not come at an easy price. In the book by Terry Orlick, “In the Pursuit of Excellence,” there is a section in which he interviews Thomas Grandi. One of his question for Thomas was, “What kind of commitment does it take to achieve your goals in your sport?”(pg. 82) and Grandi’s reply was this,

“Every decision I make is weighted on weather or not it will help me in my quest. If something is not going to help me in this quest, it probably won’t happen. To reach the top of any sport requires a huge time commitment and huge desire.” (pg. 82-83)

There is this desire I have, a certain “fire in my belly”, that keeps me inspired. It is becoming a persistent image in my head of what I want to achieve. After some harsh set backs over the past couple of years with concussions, I continue to get back up. I love what I do deep down. I love the life style, having something to work towards, and the learning process. I appreciate the lessons about life skiing has taught me and because of this I want to do it for as long as I can. In the end what I would like to gain out of this journey is a sense of accomplishment for myself and to give back to others for what they have given on the way. To be able to say, “Yeah, I did it,” and have others standing beside me sharing my success. I don’t know exactly where that point is but I believe that if I keep committed and working hard in all aspects I can achieve my personal excellence.

In my mind it is important to find a balance between doing everything you can and knowing when it is enough. Between giving every last bit that you have and still finding joy in what you do. It is pushing your limits but also knowing when to give it a break . You need to find a balance between the two or else you will run out of esteem. That I believe is the difference between obsession and dedication.

“When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you’ll be successful”

Thomas Grandi

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